Chinese Official Calls for Vigilance in Xinjiang

A senior Chinese leader is urging officials in a predominantly Muslim region to be alert for danger ahead of celebrations for China's National Day.

The October 1 holiday also marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Xinjiang autonomous region.

The China Daily said Thursday that senior Politburo member Luo Gan also urged police in Xinjiang to crack down on criminals to create a safer environment for economic growth and social progress.

Mr. Luo is leading a delegation of central government officials to Xinjiang for the holiday.

The Public Security Ministry said earlier this month that more than 260 terrorist acts have been committed in Xinjiang in the past two decades. Muslim Uighur separatists are alleged to have been responsible for most of them.